§ 86. Sir G. Foxasked the Minister of Works why the gates into Hyde Park are closed at midnight and sometimes not locked, whereas it is possible to enter the park by walking round the pillar where the railings used to be; and if he will open the roads to the public at night.
§ Mr. Tomlinson:Hyde Park is still closed to the public at midnight although owing to removal of railings it is no 155W doubt difficult to prevent access by un-authorised persons after that time. I see no grounds for opening the roads to traffic after midnight.
§ 88. Sir G. Foxasked the Minister of Works why the gates into Hyde Park, between Exhibition Road and Queen's Gate, are permanently closed; and whether, to facilitate the flow of traffic, especially when functions are being held at the Albert Hall, he will now cause those gates to be kept open.
§ Mr. Tomlinson:I assume that the hon. and gallant Member is referring to the gates at each end of the road in Kensington Gardens leading past the Albert Memorial. Owing to bomb damage the Coalbrookdale Gates at the eastern end of this road have for safety reasons to be kept closed. This involves the closing of the gates at the other end of the road. The reopening of the road will depend on the repair of the gates, and whether traffic needs justify the entry of vehicles into Kensington Gardens. The practice of opening the Coalbrookdale Gates until midnight when concerts, etc., were held at the Albert Hall was dis-continued in 1926.